February 25

G Lord, open thou my lips, and my mouth shall show forth thy praise.—Psalms 51:15.

DO I pray, not only for God's grace and his gifts, but that I may improve them all to his glory? Do I seek, not only for abundant matter for thanksgiving, but for a heart that is filled with thankfulness? Are the words which my lips utter the sincere expression of gratitude for blessings already bestowed? And when praying for future bestowments, do I offer the sacrifice of grateful praise for past mercies?

Blessings that are won by prayer should ever be worn with thankfulness. Prayer and thanksgiving are like the double motion of the lungs, the air that is sucked in in prayer, is breathed forth again by thanks.—GOODWIN.

To them that are tongue-tied by reason of guilt, the assurance of the forgiveness of their sins says effectually, as Christ said to the deaf and dumb man at Decapolis, "Ephphatha," "Be opened," and when the lips are opened what should they speak but the praises of God?—MATTHEW HENRY.

For all the gifts Thou dost impart, Help me to praise with grateful heart; My life be praise from day to day, Till earthly scenes have passed away; Until in heaven's refulgent light, Thy glory satisfies my sight! Then in thy throne's unclouded blaze, My prayers shall all be changed to praise!